As Thanksgiving has come and gone, Christmas is here. As I've gotten older I have lost my Christmas Spirit. When I was little I felt like magic and harmony were real this time of the year. Now as I have gotten older I have come to realize how much we have lost sight of what the Holidays are really about. There are presents, sales, food, and decorations. What do we actually give besides presents? My challenge for you and myself is to really give. Don't just give money, but do something for someone who is less fortunate than you are. I have been trying to do so and it has really made me appreciate what I have so much more. Here are some ways to accept my challenge and make someone else's holiday season better.

1. Volunteer

Last week I volunteered at a local soup kitchen and it really opened my eyes. I served food to people, and as I watched people go through the line I realized that these people are people just like me. There is no difference between us, only they are having a harder time in their life. As people would get their food they would tell me how thankful they are, and it really hit me.

2. Show Your Appreciation.

Take the time and give out some thank you's. This one takes a second, and it can make someone's day. Tell your teacher, the cleaning lady or even the barista at Starbucks "Thank you have a great day" It can really make them smile. Do know how many people act unkindly to them? Being kind is free and it has an even greater impact on people and creates a domino effect.

3. Spend Time Off the Phone.

When you are around your family challenge yourself to not be on your phone. I am totally guilty of being on my phone, and I know it's hard not to be. Try to engage yourself in a game with your family and friends. Go out and do something fun. Your parents and family love you, so give them some attention for the 3 weeks your home.

4. Give Back.

Every year I go to Chicago to look at the Christmas lights, and I see the homeless begging for money. I feel bad seeing them, and I saw a person on Instagram make a few gift bags and hand them out to the homeless. The bag would contain hats, gloves, socks, maybe toiletries and a $5 gift card to McDonald's. You cold easily get all these items at the Dollar Store or find stuff in your home that you don't use. It would mean so much to someone who has so little.

5. Be a Secret Santa.

I love giving fun gifts to my friends and family, so I love doing Secret Santa. It makes the holidays fun knowing I have a few parties to go to. The look on the faces of the people when they open their presents is so fun to watch. There are also Secret Santa charity options. There is the Angel Tree at most local schools and universities. You can buy presents for kids who are less fortunate than you are. It will help give them a special Christmas.

As I grow up I feel like I can relate to Cindy Lou Who from the Grinch. She questions her Christmas spirit and got it back by finding the true meaning of Christmas. I am challenging myself and whoever is reading this to find their Christmas spirit. You can use some examples above or go find yours. There are so many ways to put smiles on people's faces and it doesn't have to cost a thing. Christmas is all about spreading happiness.